While there are a number of reasons why sex can be painful, it is important you don't push it under the carpet to be dealt with another day.
1. You’re too dry
Your vagina is a self-lubricator but if you’re not turned on enough it can leave you feeling dry.
2. You have painful pimples
If you have pimples, usually caused by ingrown hairs, sex can feel uncomfortable when there is a little friction.
3. You’ve just had a baby
If you have recently given birth your body may need a little longer to recover. While doctors say about six weeks every woman is different so listen to your body.
4. It has been a while since you’ve had sex
If you haven’t been getting it for a while, for whatever reason, when you do get back on the saddle it can take a bit of time getting used to it again.
5. You skip foreplay
Foreplay gives your body a chance to get into the mood, and give your vagina a chance to self-lubricate. Jumping straight into can mean you are too dry to enjoy it.
6. You have a yeast infection
Three out of four women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their life. And while treatable it can cause you to experience swelling and pain. It’s also easy to pass it on so get it sorted before you try again.
7. Your partner is ‘too big’
If your partner is big they may poke your cervix during intercourse so try switching up your positions.
8. You have endometriosis
If you experience cramping or throbbing after sex you may be suffering from endometriosis – when the endometrium grows outside your uterus.
If you are experiencing pain before, during or after sex it is important you seek advice from your GP.
